EXCELLENT Astwood Bank reeled off their third successive one-sided win with a seven wicket success over Lichfield.

The result lifts Astwood Bank up to joint second spot in Birmingham League Division Three following another early finish.

That was after Lichfield had been levered out for just 92 runs in the space of 32 overs.

Medium pace bowler Joel Haslem got the ball rolling by taking three for 11 off eight overs.

Then first change bowler Ryan Blakemore continued the carnage by claiming four for 21 from seven overs with his left arm swing while Dan Taylor chipped in with two for 18 off 5.1 overs.

Astwood Bank skipper Steve Adshead revealed afterwards that Joel Haslem wasn't even down to play.

Her said: "It was Joel's first game for the firsts this season. He's just come back from university and played for the two's last week.

"Joel only came into the side following a late injury to Tom Harris."

Lichfield did manage some late resistance from Joe Seager, who struck 43 but Adshead added: "Lichfield couldn't get any partnerships going and it was just a continual procession."

By contrast, Astwood Bank made light of the batting conditions when openers Alex Robinson and Ryan Blakemore shared a first wicket stand of 82 which effectively wrapped up the game.

Blakemore struck 45 while Robinson remained unbeaten on 32 not out as the Bank raced to a winning 95 for three in the 22nd over.

The Bank can expect some stronger opposition this Saturday when they travel to Shrewsbury based Birmingham League newcomers Sentinel, who are joint second with them in the table.

On Sunday, Astwood Bank make the short journey to Exhall and Wixford to contest the regional final in this season's National Village Knock-out.